The Shohei Ohtani bidding process is reaching its conclusion as the baseball community gathers in Nashville for the Winter Meetings. The Los Angeles Dodgers seem to be the frontrunners in securing the versatile two-way star. However, several other teams, including the Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, and Ohtani’s former team, the Los Angeles Angels, are also in contention.
There’s talk of a potential sixth team entering the fray, reportedly the Atlanta Braves, according to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi. Despite the Dodgers being viewed as the likely landing spot for Ohtani, Morosi believes that Atlanta has an equal chance among the other mentioned teams.
Ohtani is anticipated to announce his decision this week, which could have a domino effect on the market for other prominent players, such as Rhys Hoskins.
The anticipated contract for Ohtani is expected to exceed half a billion dollars, with some speculating it could reach up to $600 million, as suggested by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
Should the Braves remain in contention for Ohtani, indications are that they’re willing to meet the hefty asking price. This move would signal a departure from their usual strategy of avoiding high bids for top free agents, instead focusing on trades for players open to signing below-market extensions, as seen with their interest in Aaron Nola.
The Braves’ motivation to pursue Ohtani might be fueled by their recent playoff losses to the Phillies in consecutive Division Series.
Signing Ohtani might lead to the Braves parting ways with designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, who has a year remaining on his contract with a club option.
Given Ohtani’s recovery from surgery, he could potentially fill Max Fried’s spot in the Braves’ rotation in 2025, as Ohtani is expected to sit out the 2024 season due to elbow surgery. Fried becomes a free agent after 2024.
The Winter Meetings commenced with the Braves making a trade, acquiring outfielder Jared Kelenic, left-handed starter Marco Gonzales, and first baseman Evan White from Seattle for right-handed pitchers Cole Phillips and Jackson Kowar.
Kelenic, a former top prospect who has faced challenges early in his career, is viewed as a potential strong addition to the Braves’ lineup. Gonzales adds pitching depth to their rotation, while White, under contract for two more years, offers potential upside.
The deal appears to be a salary dump by Seattle, allowing the Braves to gain a young outfielder and an experienced starter in exchange for a reliever and a prospect recovering from Tommy John surgery.
If the Braves secure Ohtani, it would pose a significant challenge for the Phillies. Despite Atlanta’s recent dominance in the NL East, Ohtani joining the Braves would elevate their rivalry with the Phillies and intensify the challenge of surpassing Atlanta in the postseason.
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